Issuu

COUNTY FUED THE MOST WIDELY CIRCUL ATED CARIBBEAN AMERICAN NEWSPAPER IN FLORIDA

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THURSDAY OCTOBER 15, 2026

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AND BROWARD SHERIFF AT ODDS

Broward County commissioners voted unanimously Tuesday to authorize legal action against Sheriff Gregory Tony’s office to gain access to county-owned facilities, escalating a dispute over financial transparency, public spending and the sheriff’s authority.

“They don't have the legal purview to this demand that they can walk into a facility unannounced at any point in time in some type of audit capacity or some inspection capacity. They don't have that authority.” – Sheriﬀ Gregory Tony.

continues on B4

First group of US third-country nationals arrives in Jamaica amid calls for transparency The ﬁrst group of third-country nationals (TCNs) from the United States arrived in Jamaica on Tuesday, as the Government defended its agreement to facilitate their transit through the island and the Opposition People’s National Party (PNP) renewed calls for the full terms of the arrangement to be made public. The group arrived at Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston and is being processed for 90-day landing status under the agreement between the Jamaican and US governments. The individuals will be housed by the

International Organization for Migration (IOM), which is responsible for their care, accommodation and onward movement to their countries of origin or other receiving countries. Jamaica’s role will be limited to receiving the individuals and transporting them to the IOM, the Government said. The arrival follows an announcement on Monday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade and the Ministry of National Security and Peace that the first flight was expected shortly. The ministries said the two governments had finalised operating procedures governing the arrangement,

including safeguards and parameters intended to ensure its implementation in a safe, orderly and lawful manner. The IOM had also agreed to provide support services. Under the arrangement, no more than 25 TCNs will be permitted to transit through Jamaica every two weeks. The memorandum of understanding also provides for the suspension of the programme if 10 individuals apply for asylum in Jamaica or seek to remain in the country through other humanitarian processes. The Government has defended the agreement amid questions raised by

Opposition Spokesperson on National Security Fitz Jackson, saying safeguards were negotiated with Jamaica’s interests and the welfare of its people in mind. “We have made every eﬀort to negotiate this transit agreement with protection of Jamaica and the Jamaican people in mind — also in accordance with the principles of safe and orderly migration, consistent with domestic and international law,” the Government said. Foreign Aﬀairs Minister Kamina Johnson continues on B3 – Third Party Nationals

W H AT ’ S I N S I D E

NEWSMAKER NYU names UWI Vice-Chancellor, Sir Hilary Beckles, Distinguished Scholar a3

CARIBBEAN NEWS Guyana’s opposition leader involved in shootout with senior police ofcer A5

COMMUNITY Lawmaker Clarke joins push against proposed English-only Head Start rule b1

ENTERTAINMENT Diddy reportedly injured in prison ght with Jamaican drug lord ‘Dudus’ B5

A2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 21, 2026 | CNWNETWORK.COM

PAGE A2 BSO District Chief Tarala & staﬀ enjoyed connec ng with familiar faces and mee ng new friends yesterday at our Na onal Night Out/Dania Beach Oktoberfest. A Miami Gardens resident joins the Parading for Pink & Purple in the City of Miami Gardens.

This past Saturday, Broward College proudly partnered with State Senator Barbara Sharief's oﬃce and Farm Share to host a drive-up food distribu on at South Campus.

Jamaica’s Honorary Consul to Atlanta, Dr. Elaine Bryan (second right), shares a light moment with, from le , Dr. Joseph Dove, Dr. Yvonne Smith Blake, CEO of the Montego Bay-Atlanta Ci es Commi ee, Dr. Christopher Parker, research associate professor and director of popula on and global health at the Georgia Health Policy Center at Georgia State University, and JCJ President Junior Taylor at the organiza on’s annual fundraising event, All Schools Jamm, held at the Atlanta Marrio Marquis on Saturday, Oct. 10. Smith Blake and Parker received JCJ’s Contribu on to the Culture Award. (Derrick Sco photo)

2 e g a P Miami Gardens Councilwomen Michelle C. Powell and Katrina Baskin brought the community together to honor those impacted by breast cancer and lupus.

Broward Commissioner Alexandra Davis is among those who were recognized by the Tamarac Commission for facing and bea ng cancer.

Breaking Bread 55+ Monthly Social! The latest gathering brought together a full room of Lauderhill residents for great food, games, giveaways, new friendships, and valuable community informa on.

Miramar Commissioner Avril Cherasard pictured with Machel Montana ahead of Carnival Weekend!

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 21, 2026 –

NEWSMAKER

Sir Hilary Beckles NYU names UWI Vice-Chancellor, Distinguished Scholar New York University (NYU) has appointed University of the West Indies (UWI) Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Hilary Beckles as a distinguished scholar for the 20262027 academic year, recognising a historian whose research has helped shape international discussions on slavery, reparations and the economic contributions of enslaved Africans. Beckles will be hosted by NYU's Centre for the Study of Africa and the African Diaspora, led by Professor Michael Gomez. The appointment brings Beckles back to NYU 32 years after he served as a visiting scholar at the university's Centre for Latin American and Caribbean Studies in 1994. He was succeeded in that role by Barbadian poet and scholar Professor Kamau Brathwaite. “This is a valued expression of fellowship, especially as the Centre is renowned for its outstanding scholarship and research,” Beckles said. He added that returning to NYU to work among leading scholars of African history would be particularly meaningful. As distinguished scholar, Beckles will deliver a public lecture on October 13 titled “The Economics of Wealth Creation: Why Enslaved Black Women Were the Financial Core of the Slavery Business Model.” The lecture, scheduled for 5:30 p.m. at Hemmerdinger Hall in NYU's Silver Center in New York City, will examine the economic role of enslaved Black women in the business of slavery. Beckles is an economic and

“This is a valued expression of fellowship, especially as the Centre is renowned for its outstanding scholarship and research.” – Beckles

Beckles

social historian whose research has focused extensively on slavery in the Caribbean, particularly Barbados, as well as the experiences and resistance of enslaved Black women. His publications include Britain's Black Debt: Reparations for Caribbean Slavery and Native Genocide, The First Black Slave Society: Britain's “Barbarity Time” in Barbados, 1636–1876 and Natural Rebels: A Social History of Enslaved Black Women in Barbados, 1636–1834.

His scholarship has contributed to wider debates about the legacy of slavery and calls for reparatory justice. He chairs the Caribbean Community's Commission on Reparation and Social Justice and has held advisory roles with the United Nations and UNESCO. Born in Barbados, Beckles studied economic and social history at the University of Hull in England, earning a bachelor's degree in 1976 and a doctorate in 1980. He joined UWI in 1979 as a temporary lecturer

at its Mona campus in Jamaica and went on to build a career spanning research, teaching and university leadership. He later served as principal and pro vice-chancellor of UWI's Cave Hill Campus in Barbados from 2002 to 2015 before becoming the university's eighth vice-chancellor in May 2015. He was subsequently reappointed for a second six-year term beginning in August 2021. Under his leadership, Beckles has continued to advocate for higher education as a driver of Caribbean development and for greater recognition of the region's historical experiences in international discussions about inequality and economic justice. He also serves as chairman and chancellor of the United Nations University, which conducts research and education addressing global challenges. His academic output includes more than 20 books and over 100 peer-reviewed journal essays, according to UWI. Beyond his work on slavery and reparations, Beckles has made signiﬁcant contributions to the study of West Indies cricket and its place

in Caribbean identity. He helped establish the Centre for Cricket Research at UWI's Cave Hill campus in 1994 and later published a twovolume history of the sport, The Development of West Indies Cricket. His research also explores the region's labor movement, education and social history. Beckles was appointed a Knight of St. Andrew, Barbados' highest national honor, in 2007, and has received honorary degrees from the universities of Hull and Glasgow, as well as Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana. The NYU appointment adds to a series of international honors. In 2022, Beckles was named an honorary international historian by the Association of American Historians. He was also appointed a distinguished chancellor's professor-at-large at Cornell University. In November 2025, the University of London awarded him an honorary Doctor of Social Sciences degree in recognition of his scholarship, university leadership and advocacy for social justice. The latest recognition also highlights UWI's contribution to Caribbean scholarship and international academic collaboration. Registration details for the October 13 lecture are available through the NYU Centre for the Study of Africa and the African Diaspora.

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A4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 21, 2026 | CNWNETWORK.COM

CARIBBEAN NEWS

St Kitts and Nevis PM cleared to resume duties after stroke St Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Dr Terrance Drew says he has received medical clearance to resume his full duties after suffering a stroke in August and completing inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation in the United States. In a radio and television broadcast on Tuesday, Drew said he had been discharged from the US hospital where he was receiving treatment and had received an “excellent bill of health” following a medical assessment. “I also want to confirm that I visited the doctors again today, and I was given an excellent bill of health and I was told that I am fit to return to full duty,” he said. Drew, a medical practitioner, was flown to Miami for evaluation and treatment on September 2, after being airlifted from St Kitts to Martinique on August 31. He later disclosed that he had suffered a stroke caused by a dissection of the vertebral artery, a tear in one of the arteries supplying blood to the back of the brain. His initial

Drew

symptoms included persistent nausea, vomiting, neck pain, dizziness and diﬃculty walking or maintaining his balance. In Tuesday’s address, Drew thanked those who had supported him during his illness, crediting their prayers and messages of encouragement with helping him through the experience. “From the depths of my soul, thank you.

Thank you for every prayer whispered in the quiet of the night. Thank you for every message, every call, every kind word. I felt your love and care. I felt your faith. And I believe, I truly believe, that it helped to carry me through,” he said. Describing his recovery as both a trial and a testimony, Drew said the experience had reinforced his appreciation for his faith, family and the people of St Kitts and Nevis. “Today, I address you not from a hospital bed, not in a rehabilitation centre, but as your Prime Minister, ready to serve, ready to resume my full-time duties,” he said. While Drew was recovering, Acting Prime Minister Dr Geoﬀrey Hanley oversaw the Government’s work. Drew said he had been kept up to date on government projects and praised the arrangements made to maintain continuity in his absence. “Plans were in place. The transition was smooth. The work continued,” he said, describing the process as a testament to the country’s institutions and the maturity of his Cabinet colleagues. Drew said his commitment to the federation remained ﬁrm and that the experience had strengthened his resolve to

continue serving. He also announced plans to travel to Washington, DC, later this week to participate in a US-Caribbean dialogue scheduled for October 15. The meeting will provide an opportunity to engage senior US officials on issues affecting St Kitts and Nevis, including energy security, economic investment, national security, health care and opportunities for citizens, he said. Drew said his participation was important to maintaining progress on potential partnerships and advancing commitments that could benefit the country. “As head of government, along with the Federal Cabinet, it is my responsibility to ensure that St Kitts and Nevis has a strong voice wherever important decisions affecting our future are being discussed, and I intend to continue doing just that,” he said. Drew said he expected to return home soon to resume his duties in the federation and asked the public to continue praying for him as he returns to work. “This experience has not weakened me at all. To the contrary, it has strengthened my resolve. I am ready to work,” he said.

Belize removed from EU tax list after transparency review Belize has been removed from the European Union’s list of jurisdictions with outstanding tax transparency commitments after completing a review of its informationsharing practices. The decision was announced on Oct. 9 by the Government of Belize following a meeting of the EU’s Economic and Financial Affairs Council (ECOFIN). Belize’s removal from Annex II of the EU’s list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes confirms that the country has met its commitment under criterion 1.2, which concerns the exchange of information on request. The decision follows a supplementary peer review by the Global Forum on Transparency and Exchange of Information for Tax Purposes. In a report published on April 29, 2026, the forum upgraded Belize’s overall rating from “Partially Compliant” to “Largely Compliant.” Following the assessment, the EU’s Code of Conduct Group concluded that Belize had met the requirements under criterion 1.2 and recommended its removal from Annex II. On Aug. 31, Prime Minister John Briceño wrote to the president of ECOFIN seeking formal completion of the process. The Code of Conduct Group subsequently confirmed that it would recommend Belize’s removal at the October meeting. “Today’s decision brings the EU process into line with Belize’s successful supplementary review and the progress our country has made,” Briceño said. “It reflects the sustained work undertaken across Government to strengthen our laws, systems, and institutional capacity for tax transparency and the effective exchange of information.” Briceño welcomed the EU’s recognition of the country’s progress and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining international tax transparency standards. He also commended the Financial Services Commission for leading the technical work throughout the review process, while acknowledging the contributions of the Ministry of Finance and other public authorities and regulatory bodies. The government said Belize would continue implementing the Global Forum’s recommendations and strengthening its tax transparency framework.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 21, 2026 –

CARIBBEAN NEWS

Guyana’s opposition leader involved in shootout with senior police officer The Guyanese government says the “full force of the law” will be applied following an incident involving Opposition Leader Azruddin Mohamed, who was arrested along with two other men after gunshots were reportedly fired near the home of a senior police officer. In a statement Tuesday, the government said Mohamed and the two men were allegedly filming the home of Senior Superintendent of Police Prem Narine on Barr Street in Kitty around midnight Monday. According to the statement, the men were traveling in a dark-colored car with heavily tinted windows when gunshots rang out from the vehicle. Spent shells were subsequently found on the road near Narine’s home, the government said. Narine reportedly opened fire on the car with his service handgun, triggering a chase involving law enforcement officers. The vehicle was intercepted, with Mohamed found in the back seat and the two other men in the front, according to the statement. An unlicensed firearm was allegedly found in the vehicle. The three men were arrested and remain in police custody, the government said. The government also linked the incident to

Mohamed

Narine

Mohamed’s ongoing extradition proceedings, in which Narine is a key witness. The senior police oﬃcer is currently testifying in the case at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. According to the government, Mohamed’s Facebook page previously published photo-

graphs of Narine and his family, including his minor son, alongside President Irfaan Ali. The statement said Narine had told the court under oath that he feared for his life and his family’s safety. The government further said Narine had

Trinidad and Tobago plans phased restart of Petrotrin renery The Trinidad and Tobago Government plans to restart the Petrotrin oil refinery at Pointe-a-Pierre, which was shut down in November 2018 amid mounting debt and operational losses. Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo announced the plans on Monday as he presented the TT$63.3 billion national budget to Parliament, saying the Government was evaluating proposals from local and international investors to facilitate the refinery’s phased restart. “We will restart the refinery. We are advancing the phased restart of the Guaracara Refinery at Pointe-a-Pierre,” Tancoo said. He said the Government had received a comprehensive report from the Refinery Restart Committee and was assessing proposals from a shortlist of potential investors. “Let me be clear, we will approach the restart of this national asset with fiscal discipline. Our objective is to secure a credible, commercially viable and fully financed arrangement that protects the national interest while creating the conditions for renewed economic activity,” he said. The refinery, which had operated for more than a century, was closed by the administration of former prime minister Keith Rowley on November 30, 2018. The previous government said Petrotrin had accumulated an estimated TT$12 billion in debt and recorded losses of approximately TT$8 billion over five years. Tancoo said the closure had affected thousands of people in communities stretching from Couva to Cedros, including contractors and small businesses that depended on the refinery for their livelihoods. “This is about reinstating the very lifeline to communities, downstream contractors, micro-enterprises, doubles vendors, roti shops, etc. Thousands of residents in communities from Couva to Cedros were suddenly left traumatised by a loss of income to meet the needs of their family since 2018,” he said. He added that the closure had also changed the country’s position in the refined petroleum market. “When the refinery was shut down, the country moved from being a net exporter of refined products to having to import every single litre of diesel, of gasoline, of pitch oil and of engine oil used in this country,”

Tancoo said. The finance minister identified energy as the foundation of Trinidad and Tobago’s economy, noting that more than 70 per cent of the country’s foreign exchange earnings come from energy commodity exports. He said the Government was also working to address declining natural gas production, which has affected liquefied natural gas (LNG) and petrochemical output. Tancoo blamed the previous administration for relying heavily on the proposed Dragon gas field in Venezuelan waters while failing to reverse declining gas production. He said natural gas supply stood at 2.4 billion cubic feet per day, representing a 45 per cent decline in output that had contributed to the permanent closure of Atlantic LNG Train 1 and several petrochemical plants. “Today the Point Lisas Estate is almost a ghost town and even those plants still operating are producing significantly below capacity. They have devastated our energy security, but we are fixing it,” he said. Tancoo said restoring natural gas supplies was the Government’s first priority. To accelerate investment, the administration has established an Energy Accelerator Hub within the Ministry of Energy and Energy Industries to streamline regulatory and administrative approvals for major projects. The hub brings together 33 separate approvals across eight ministries and agencies, a move the Government expects to reduce delays and speed up production. Tancoo highlighted several projects expected to boost natural gas supplies over the coming years, including developments by

bpTT and EOG Resources. He said EOG’s Mento development had achieved first gas and reached peak production of 281.58 million standard cubic feet per day in June 2026. Other projects expected to contribute new supplies include bpTT’s Ginger development, Mahogany A Extended Field, Juniper Phase II, Coconut, Aphrodite and Manatee Plus, with several targeting first gas in 2027. The Government is also pursuing additional exploration and development opportunities, including cross-border and deepwater gas resources. Tancoo said bpTT had secured an exploration and production licence for Loran Phase II, which could help the country monetise more than four trillion cubic feet of natural gas from regional and cross-border fields. He also cited bpTT’s proposed acquisition of Woodside’s 70 per cent stake in the Calypso gas field, which is expected to close by the end of 2026. Beyond natural gas, Tancoo said the Government was pursuing investment in oil exploration and production, including a potential US$21 billion investment involving ExxonMobil. He said ExxonMobil had completed a three-dimensional seismic acquisition programme in an ultradeepwater block, with analysis underway to identify potential drilling targets. Other international companies, including Chevron and Occidental Petroleum, have also expressed interest in Trinidad and Tobago’s energy sector, he added.

testiﬁed that Mohamed posed a threat to national security and was implicated in several killings, based on information obtained by the Guyana Police Force. These remain claims attributed to the government’s statement. The government warned that the incident could have implications beyond Guyana, particularly for the safety of witnesses in the extradition proceedings and any subsequent criminal trial in the United States. Mohamed’s extradition proceedings in Guyana are preliminary to a potential trial in the United States, where he could face criminal proceedings if extradited. “The State has a duty to protect its justice system from interference and perversions,” the government said, adding that witness safety was essential to the administration of justice. It said investigations by law enforcement agencies were ongoing and that the U.S. Department of Justice was being kept informed of the developments. The statement did not detail the speciﬁc charges, if any, laid against Mohamed or the two other men in connection with Monday night’s incident.

Dominica psychiatrist urges Caribbean to raise legal age for alcohol, cannabis use A consultant psychiatrist at Dominica’s Acute Psychiatric Unit, Dr. Nadia Wallace, is urging Dominica and other Caribbean countries to consider raising the legal age for alcohol and cannabis use, following Trinidad and Tobago’s passage of legislation tightening age restrictions on several substances and gambling. Wallace said the move by Trinidad and Tobago was commendable and should prompt other countries in the region to consider similar measures, particularly given the potential mental health eﬀects of alcohol and cannabis use. “Recently, we heard in the news that Trinidad has moved to increasing the age at which, you know, persons are allowed to smoke and drink. I think this is something that Dominica and even the other countries in the region should look into doing,” she said. Last week, Trinidad and Tobago’s Parliament approved the Miscellaneous Provisions (Alcohol, Cannabis, Dangerous Drugs, Gambling and Tobacco) Bill, 2026. Among its key provisions, the legislation raises the minimum legal age for purchasing and consuming alcohol and tobacco from 18 to 21. It also raises the minimum age for the sale, purchase, possession and consumption of cannabis to 25 and prohibits people under 25 from gambling. The legislation further restricts people under 25 from joining registered clubs, except those primarily devoted to athletic activities, and prohibits them from gambling on club premises. Certain violations carry ﬁnes of up to TT$50,000, equivalent to approximately US$8,000. Wallace said discussions about raising the legal age for substance use should extend beyond cannabis to include alcohol, which can also have serious mental health consequences. “It’s not just marijuana. Alcohol also has a psychoactive component, and it can also lead to, and contribute to, persons having psychosis,” she said. She urged Dominica to examine the possibility of raising the legal age for cannabis use, suggesting that the country consider setting it between 23 and 25.

A6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 21, 2026 | CNWNETWORK.COM

HAITI NEWS

Haitian party challenges UN allegations against its leader The Pitit Dessalin political party has written to United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres seeking clarification and evidence for allegations against its leader, former Senator Moïse JeanCharles, in a report on Haiti. The party is challenging claims in the final report of the UN Panel of Experts on Haiti that JeanCharles runs and influences an illicit network linked to the country’s lucrative glass eel trade. The Provisional Electoral Council has approved Pitit Dessalin, along with the Organization du Peuple en Lutte (OPL) and Ayiti An Aksyon (AAA), to contest the Dec. 13 elections. The panel’s 94-page report, covering developments through July 2026, alleges that JeanCharles’ network influences the

issuance of export permits, customs oversight, harvesting and commercialization, connecting the operations to wider smuggling networks across the Caribbean. However, Pitit Dessalin argued

that the glass eel trade, known locally as zangi, is not inherently illegal and that the Ministry of Agriculture issues certiﬁcates to exporters who meet the applicable requirements.

“It is therefore important to distinguish between legally authorized commercial activity and any potential infractions that might occur within this sector. Moïse Jean-Charles maintains that he does not engage in any commercial activity in this field,” the party said. Pitit Dessalin called for the allegations against its leader to be supported by verifiable evidence. The party “specifically requests that the allegations targeting Moïse Jean-Charles be substantiated by precise, verifiable, and sufficiently corroborated evidence,” it said. “In the absence of such evidence establishing the alleged personal link to the control of the glass eel sector, the Party requests that his name be removed from the relevant passages.” The party said it was leaving the

matter to the appropriate UN bodies to clarify, while reserving the right to pursue action before national and international bodies to defend its reputation and the rights of its members. The panel’s report, issued on Sept. 8, also examined the security situation in Haiti, including the activities of armed gangs and their alleged connections to political, economic and security ﬁgures. in the lower Artibonite region and gang consolidation in the Centre department, with their reach extending into the South-East.

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UN allocates US$75 million for aid to 507,000 people in Haiti The United Nations has allocated an additional US$75 million to provide emergency assistance to 507,000 people in Haiti amid escalating violence, displacement and disruptions to essential services. The Haiti Humanitarian Fund (HHF) allocation, announced Monday, Oct. 12, will support 10 projects across 28 priority communes in the Ouest, Centre and Artibonite departments, according to the UN Oﬃce for the Coordination of Humanitarian Aﬀairs (OCHA). The funding will be used to provide food, safe drinking water, health care and emergency shelter, as well as protection for women and children at risk of abuse and exploitation. It will also support medical and psychosocial care for survivors of sexual

violence, treatment for children with acute malnutrition and assistance for people with disabilities. The allocation includes US$4.5 million for a rapid response mechanism to help humanitarian partners respond quickly to violence, displacement and other emergencies. A portion of the funding will go directly to three consortia of Haitian national and local nongovernmental organizations, which often operate on the front lines in areas where armed violence restricts humanitarian access. The initiative also aims to strengthen local organizations’ participation in humanitarian decision-making, including through greater involvement in coordination and governance. One consortium is led by a coalition placing

women in leadership roles in the protection response, helping ensure assistance addresses the speciﬁc risks faced by women and girls. “By putting national and local partners at the center of this response, we are building a more sustainable humanitarian architecture for Haiti,” said Nicole Kouassi, the UN humanitarian coordinator in Haiti. “I am particularly encouraged to see women-led organizations leading the protection response for women and girls,” she added. OCHA said funding decisions were based on humanitarian needs, security risks and access conditions, with safeguards intended to ensure assistance is delivered safely and in accordance with humanitarian principles. The latest allocation follows contributions

to the Haiti Humanitarian Fund earlier this year, including US$125 million in March and a further US$75 million from the United States in September. Kouassi thanked the United States for its additional contribution, saying the funding would help sustain humanitarian operations and protect progress made in assisting vulnerable Haitians. The humanitarian situation remains severe, with an estimated 6.4 million people in Haiti requiring assistance and nearly 6 million facing acute food insecurity. Violence has displaced almost 1.5 million people, half of them within the past 18 months, according to OCHA.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 21, 2026 –

EDITORIAL

OPINION

NaRRA owes Jamaicans answers on spending

urricane Melissa struck Jamaica on Oct. 28, 2025, causing catastrophic damage, particularly in western

parishes. According to a report by Jamaica’s auditor general tabled in Parliament in May, public donations received for Melissa relief and reconstruction amounted to J$1.44 billion, of which just J$26.2 million, or 1.8%, was spent on hurricane victims. The J$1.44 billion is not the total value of all assistance from the Jamaican government, international partners and private sources. The government also reported several recovery contracts and other sources of financing worth approximately J$11.3 billion, separate from the donations in the relief accounts. Earlier this year, the government established the National Reconstruction and Resilience Authority (NaRRA) under a parliamentary act to coordinate and accelerate post-hurricane reconstruction and resilience projects. NaRRA was created to hasten reconstruction, repair drainage systems and damaged communities, and coordinate projects centrally rather than through separate agencies. It is also intended to improve project delivery through specialized planning, procurement, financial and engineering expertise; rebuild infrastructure to withstand strong hurricanes; and track projects and expenditure through reporting, monitoring and a register of approved projects. To justify establishing NaRRA rather than placing recovery projects under an existing agency, the government argued that existing procedures are too slow for major reconstruction projects. It cited delays in previous projects and difficulties deploying disaster donations quickly as evidence that a different implementation structure was needed. The government’s argument is sound. After a natural disaster, the public needs essential services restored without unnecessary administrative delays. However, an authority with faster approval and procurement powers can also create greater risks without adequate independent oversight. The government established the Jamaica Reconstruction and Resilience Oversight Committee (JRROC) to provide independent monitoring of NaRRA projects. During parliamentary debate, the opposition People's National Party (PNP) raised concerns about the concentration of executive power, procurement safeguards and NaRRA’s governance arrangements. Despite the creation of JRROC, concerns remain about whether NaRRA will preserve meaningful independent checks while speeding up project delivery. Can the agency entrusted with managing substantial relief funds account for the money, approve its use promptly and demonstrate that it reaches those for whom it was intended? Reports last week indicated that NaRRA had signed a five-year lease for two floors of office space at Digicel’s headquarters on Kingston’s waterfront, at an annual cost of approximately US$725,972, or J$115.2

Anderson

million. The government said the rent was assessed against current market rates by the National Land Agency. The opposition challenged the decision, asking why government-owned premises could not be used instead. Following the criticism, the government indicated that the lease terms were being revised to cover one floor. Details of the revised lease remain unknown. There is no published financial breakdown confirming whether the rent or CEO’s salary is being paid directly from funds collected for hurricane victims. The government has also said that financing from a US$6.7 billion package involving international development institutions will be channeled through NaRRA. The legislation also allows the authority to receive funds approved by Parliament and other money payable to it. The fact that NaRRA is an independent agency does not automatically mean its rent and salaries are being paid from funds intended for hurricane victims. The government should publish the precise funding sources for these expenses and identify the budget appropriation, account and funding source used to pay the rent, CEO’s remuneration and office setup costs. In response to public criticism, the government has said the CEO’s compensation package, including a motor vehicle and a performance-related gratuity of 25%, is comparable to those of CEOs of large public bodies internationally. There is a reasonable argument for paying a highly qualified executive well to manage a major reconstruction program involving billions of dollars. But the public needs to know the specific performance targets the CEO must meet and the measurable results that justify the compensation. Given the government’s assertion that performance expectations are high, it should publish the targets against which that performance will be assessed. The government has not demonstrated why the five-year rental commitment represents the best use of taxpayers’ money. Market-rate rent is not the same as good value for money. A building can be priced fairly compared with similar commercial properties and still represent an unnecessary expense if

suitable public premises are available. The government should disclose the independent valuation and full revised lease agreement; identify which government-owned buildings were considered and explain why they were rejected; disclose the cost of furnishing and fitting out the new offices; and publish NaRRA’s projected operating costs over five years. The government can legitimately argue that the authority needs skilled leadership, adequate office space and resources to coordinate a national rebuilding program. Not every dollar spent on administration is wasted. Good administration can prevent significant losses and accelerate reconstruction. However, administrative expenditure must be proportionate to the task, particularly when people are struggling to rebuild their homes and livelihoods. People, many of them from the diaspora, who donated money wanted hurricane victims to receive urgent assistance. They deserve an accounting of how those donations are being spent. It is crucial that NaRRA publish regular financial statements showing the source of each category of funding and how the money is spent, provide a public comparison of office options, including the cost of using existing government premises, and issue regular reports detailing completed projects. The government owes Jamaicans a stronger justification for committing millions of dollars to a five-year office lease and a highly paid executive. Do these expenses represent the most responsible use of public resources? If the government cannot demonstrate that the costs are necessary, show that cheaper alternatives have been properly considered and ensure that NaRRA delivers measurable reconstruction results, public criticism of these expenditures is entirely justified.

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A8 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 21, 2026 | CNWNETWORK.COM

strictly legal

How a Criminal Defense attorney can protect your rights after an arrest fear or uncertainty. One of the most valuable roles of a criminal defense attorney is protecting your rights during questioning. After an arrest, investigators may attempt to obtain statements that can later be used as evidence. Even seemingly harmless comments can sometimes be misunderstood or taken out of context. An attorney can advise you on when to answer questions, when to remain silent, and how to avoid unintentionally harming your own defense.

Being arrested does not mean you have been convicted of a crime, and a criminal defense attorney can protect your rights by ensuring you receive fair treatment, explaining your legal options, challenging improper evidence, and building a strong defense on your behalf. The decisions you make in the hours and days after an arrest can have a lasting impact on your future. Tampa, located in Hillsborough County, is home to major highways like Interstate 4, Interstate 275, and the Selmon Expressway, making it one of Florida's busiest metropolitan areas. Criminal cases are handled through the local court system, making it important for residents and visitors to understand their legal rights if they are arrested. If you need guidance after an arrest, working with an experienced Tampa criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the legal process while protecting your constitutional rights. This article explains how a criminal defense attorney can protect your rights after an arrest.

Reviewing the Evidence Not every criminal charge is supported by strong evidence. A defense attorney carefully examines: • Police reports • Witness statements • Surveillance footage • Physical evidence • Digital evidence • Laboratory reports This review may reveal inconsistencies, missing evidence, procedural mistakes, or constitutional violations that could aﬀect the outcome of the case.

Your Rights Begin the Moment You Get Arrested Many people believe their legal rights begin once they appear in court, but they actually start the moment law enforcement places them under arrest.

understand. A defense attorney explains: • The charges you are facing • Possible penalties • Available defense strategies • Important court deadlines

Among your most important rights are: • The right to remain silent • The right to legal representation • Protection against unreasonable searches and seizures • The right to due process • The right to a fair trial

What to expect throughout the legal process

Criminal charges often involve legal terms and procedures that can be diﬃcult to

Having someone explain each step helps reduce confusion and allows you to make informed decisions rather than reacting out of

Challenging Unlawful Searches or Arrests Law enforcement officers must follow legal procedures when conducting searches, making arrests, and collecting evidence. If officers violated your constitutional rights, a defense attorney may ask the court to suppress improperly obtained evidence. For example, evidence gathered through an unlawful search or seizure may not always be admissible in court. Identifying these issues early can significantly strengthen a defense strategy.

Negotiating With Prosecutors Not every criminal case proceeds to trial. Depending on the facts, a defense attorney may negotiate with prosecutors regarding: • Reduced charges • Alternative sentencing options • Diversion programs • Plea agreements Eﬀective negotiations can sometimes lead to more favorable outcomes while helping clients avoid unnecessary risks associated with trial.

Representing You in Court If your case goes before a judge or jury, your attorney serves as your advocate throughout the proceedings. Under Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.111, defendants are entitled to legal representation at every critical stage of a criminal case, ensuring they have counsel throughout the court process. Your attorney may: • Present evidence • Cross-examine witnesses • Challenge the prosecution's arguments • Object to improper evidence • Deliver legal arguments on your behalf Strong courtroom representation ensures your side of the story is fully presented while protecting your legal rights throughout the trial.

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CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 21, 2026 –

strictly legal

Lawmaker Clarke joins push against proposed English-only Head Start rule Caribbean-American Democratic Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke has joined leaders of the TriCaucus in the U.S. House of Representatives in calling on the U.S. government to withdraw a proposed Head Start rule that would require English-only instruction and change existing language-access protections. Clarke, the daughter of Jamaican immigrants and chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, represents New York’s 9th Congressional District in Brooklyn. She joined other Tri-Caucus leaders in a letter to U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. opposing the proposed rule, which they described as harmful to children and families who speak languages other than English. Clarke told the Caribbean Media Corporation that Head Start is “a critical programme that provides high-quality early childhood education and comprehensive support services for low-income children and their families.” While the lawmakers are calling for the proposed rule to be withdrawn in its entirety, Clarke said their letter focuses speciﬁcally on changes to language-access protections. Nearly 40 percent of children enrolled in Head Start are dual-language learners, representing almost 290,000 children nationwide, according to the lawmakers. They said 30 percent of Head Start enrollees come from families whose primary home language is not English. The lawmakers said dual-language instruction can help children develop English-

language skills while preparing them for school. “We share the goal of ensuring that every Head Start child develops strong Englishlanguage skills. But requiring English-only instruction is not supported by the evidence and risks undermining that very goal,” they wrote. They argued that Head Start is often a child’s first classroom experience and that allowing children to understand, communicate and participate in a language they know supports their learning and transition to school. The lawmakers also said the proposed rule conflicts with requirements established by Congress under the Head Start Act. The law directs the HHS secretary to establish standards that help children with limited English proficiency acquire English

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while making progress in other developmental areas, including through “culturally and linguistically appropriate instructional services,” according to the letter. The lawmakers also pointed to provisions requiring revisions to Head Start standards to avoid reducing the quality, scope or types of educational, parental-involvement, health and other services required under existing

standards. They said the law further requires literacy training for teachers that supports vocabulary development and phonological awareness in a developmentally, culturally and linguistically appropriate manner while supporting children’s development in their native language. The lawmakers also raised concerns about developmental screenings and assessments under the proposed rule. They noted that the Head Start Act requires assessments to be developmentally, linguistically and culturally appropriate, valid and reliable in the language in which they are administered, and conducted by appropriately trained staff. The law also requires accommodations for children with limited English proficiency. The lawmakers warned that assessments conducted in a language a young child does not sufficiently understand could result in normal second-language development being mistaken for a developmental delay or a genuine disability or developmental concern being missed. “Either outcome could delay appropriate early intervention at precisely the age when it can make the greatest difference,” they wrote.

US to increase EB-5 investor visa fees from November 30 The United States will increase fees for its EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program from November 30, 2026, as immigration authorities seek to recover the cost of administering the program and strengthen measures to prevent fraud. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced the fee adjustments on September 29, saying the changes are intended to cover the program’s operating costs, meet statutory processing time targets and support oversight measures, including audits and site visits. Congress established the EB-5 program in 1990 to encourage economic growth through foreign investment and job creation. It allows eligible foreign investors to qualify for lawful permanent residence, commonly known as a Green Card, through investments in the United States that meet the program’s requirements. The fee changes follow the EB-5 Reform and Integrity Act of 2022, which directed USCIS to conduct a program-speciﬁc fee study and set charges at levels suﬃcient to

recover the full cost of administering the program. The legislation also established processing time goals and strengthened oversight requirements, including compliance reviews, audits and site visits, as well as measures to detect and prevent fraud and abuse. USCIS said it relies largely on application fees rather than taxpayer funding to finance its operations. Those fees cover the costs of reviewing applications, conducting background checks, verifying eligibility, investigating potential fraud and maintaining program operations. The new fees are intended to ensure that users of the EB-5 program cover the costs associated with processing their applications and meeting the program’s oversight requirements. The final rule follows a proposed rule published by the Department of Homeland Security in October 2025. USCIS said the adjustments are scheduled to take effect on November 30, 2026.

USCIS to increase certain immigration fees from Oct. 16 U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will increase certain immigrationrelated fees from October 16 as part of an annual adjustment to account for inflation. The agency announced the changes on September 30, saying the increases apply to fees established under H.R. 1 and reflect inflation between July 2025 and July 2026. The new fees will apply to requests postmarked on or after October 16, 2026. Applications submitted from that date without the correct fee will be rejected. Among the changes, the annual asylum application fee will increase from US$102 to US$105, while the immigration parole fee for Form I-131, used to apply for travel and parole documents, will rise from US$1,020 to US$1,050. The fee for an initial employment authorization document for asylum applicants, parolees and people with Temporary

Protected Status will increase from US$560 to US$570. The fee for Form I-821, used to apply for Temporary Protected Status, will rise from US$510 to US$520. The adjustments follow a July 2025 USCIS notice implementing immigration-related fees under H.R. 1. The law requires the Department of Homeland Security to adjust certain fees for inﬂation annually, beginning in ﬁscal year 2026.

B2 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 21, 2026 | CNWNETWORK.COM

COMMUNITY & THE DIASPORA

Miami-Dade cancels 6,036 disabled parking permits in fraud crackdown Miami-Dade County has canceled 6,036 disabled parking permits following an audit of more than 129,000 records, as the county tax collector introduces a new online system to strengthen verification and reduce fraud. Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez announced the findings Oct. 9 while unveiling PERMiO, a secure platform that allows residents to apply for or renew disabled parking permits online and enables authorized medical providers to submit medical certifications electronically. According to the Miami-Dade County Tax Collector’s Office, it has reviewed 129,066 parking placard records, with 8,384 failing the final audit. The office also said its efforts contributed to 11 arrests through Operation Parking Denied, conducted in collaboration with the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office.

The review uncovered suspicious medical certifications bearing the name of a deceased physician, with signatures that did not match those on official state records, the office said. The findings highlighted weaknesses in the paper-based application process and the need for stronger verification measures. “When someone abuses a disabled parking permit, they take that access away from a person who needs it. That is unacceptable. And our office is taking action,” Fernandez said. “Our goal is to end disabled parking permit fraud and protect access for the people who need it.” PERMiO was developed in-house by the tax collector’s office to improve the application and renewal process while reducing reliance on paper documents that could be altered or falsified. The platform is also intended to reduce paperwork and unnecessary office visits for residents with disabilities. Under the office’s renewal guidance, residents certified as permanently disabled must renew their

permits every four years but do not need a new medical certification at their first renewal. Updated certification is required at the subsequent renewal, generally after eight years. The system was demonstrated at a press conference attended by disability advocates, medical professionals, law enforcement representatives, county officials and community organizations. The tax collector’s office said developing the platform internally could save taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars compared with purchasing comparable software solutions. It added that other Florida counties have expressed interest in potentially adopting the system. “A disabled parking permit is a lifeline. Our job is to protect it and make sure it reaches the people who need it,” Fernandez said. Residents can find more information about the system and disabled parking permits at the Miami-Dade County Tax Collector’s Office website.

Fort Lauderdale considers age limit, registration rules for e-bike riders Electric bicycle riders in Fort Lauderdale could face new age limits, registration requirements and restrictions on where they can ride under proposed rules expected to be approved by the end of 2026. City commissioners are considering the measures in response to an increase in crashes involving electric bicycles, with the proposed rules also covering electric scooters, eskateboards, hoverboards and Onewheels. Under the proposals, riders would have to

be at least 16 years old, carry governmentissued photo identification and register their devices with the city. Registered devices would also be required to display a registration decal at all times. The proposed rules would also prohibit the use of the devices on certain areas within city parks, including pathways and recreational trails, athletic fields and turf areas, plazas and promenades. Violators would face a $250 fine for a first offense and $500 for subsequent violations. Electric bicycles, commonly known as ebikes, use an electric motor and rechargeable battery to assist riders. Depending on the model, they can reach maximum speeds of 20

mph or 28 mph. The proposed regulations come amid growing concerns about the safety of e-bikes and other micromobility devices as their popularity increases. If approved, the rules would establish new requirements for riders and restrictions on device use in Fort Lauderdale. City commissioners are expected to ﬁnalize the measures before the end of the year, ahead of their anticipated implementation in 2027.

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Mayor Denise D. Grant has served Lauderhill with distinction — first on the City Commission since 2018, now as our Mayor. A proud Jamaican-American and devoted mom to her son Joshua, Denise leads with heart, fighting for lower property taxes, safer and cleaner neighborhoods, thriving businesses, and programs that support our children and seniors. If you're voting by mail, keep an eye out — your ballot should be arriving soon. Please fill it out and return it as soon as possible so your voice is counted for Denise on November 3rd.

CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 21, 2026 –

COMMUNITY & THE DIASPORA

Broward schools administrator fired over laptop procurement investigation Jamaican American school administrator Jennifer Andreu has been fired by the Broward County School Board following an investigation into the district’s laptop procurement process that found she and other employees mismanaged the process and misled board members. The board voted 6-3 on Tuesday to terminate Andreu, who served as the school district’s executive director of operations from 2023 to early 2026. Board members Adam Cervera, Jeff Holness and Nora Rupert voted against the termination. The decision came despite pleas for leniency from supporters who addressed the board, arguing that Andreu had done nothing to warrant her dismissal. Andreu has denied wrongdoing. The Broward Office of Inspector General released its investigation on Sept. 30 after examining three efforts to select vendors for laptop purchases and deployment. The report concluded that, while Andreu and some other employees “did not engage in misconduct or gross mismanagement, they mismanaged the procurement process and, in the course of

doing so, misled the School Board.” Andreu was moved from her operations role to a position overseeing economic development and compliance earlier this year.

Superintendent defends disciplinary action During his superintendent’s report on Tuesday, before the board discussed Andreu’s employment, Superintendent Howard Hepburn said the inspector general’s findings highlighted significant problems that the district needed to address. “The concerns identified in this report are unacceptable, and we are taking action. Public trust is earned through our actions, not simply our words,” Hepburn told the board. “Any employee found to have knowingly misled the School Board, violated district policies, or broken the law will face swift and appropriate disciplinary action up to and including termination,” he added. During the discussion, board member Jeff Holness questioned the decision-making process.

Third Party Nationals Smith has maintained that Jamaica will not permit TCNs with criminal antecedents to enter under the programme. The Government noted that some other countries had agreed to receive individuals with criminal backgrounds, but said Jamaica would not do so. Johnson Smith has also said the arrangement would not be funded by the Jamaican Government. The IOM will provide care and accommodation while facilitating the individuals’ onward movement, with the aim of returning them to their countries of origin or transferring them to other receiving countries.

Andreu considers appeal

Andreu

“Rush decision or a harsh decision?” Holness asked. “This is not a rush or a harsh decision,” Hepburn responded. Broward Teachers Union President Anna Fusco also challenged the process used to terminate Andreu, arguing that the district had not followed proper procedures. “This due process was not done accurately, it was not done right,” Fusco said while addressing the board.

Speaking to the South Florida Sun Sentinel after the meeting, Andreu said she was disappointed by the board’s decision and was considering her options to challenge the termination. “I’m deeply disappointed by the board’s decision,” Andreu said. “I did nothing to warrant termination and stand by my nearly 30 years of public service and integrity.” She told the newspaper that she was reviewing options to “continue defending my reputation,” including appealing the decision to Florida’s Division of Administrative Hearings. The termination follows months of scrutiny over the district’s laptop procurement eﬀorts and raises questions about accountability in the management of public education resources. Andreu maintains that she did not engage in conduct warranting dismissal, while district leadership has said disciplinary action is necessary to address the concerns identiﬁed by the inspector general.

from A1

The Government has also addressed questions about why the agreement has not been published, explaining that the United States had not agreed to its release. It said the lack of public disclosure was not due to anything prejudicial in the arrangement. However, the arrival of the ﬁrst group has intensiﬁed the PNP’s calls for the agreement to be tabled in Parliament. In a statement on Tuesday, the Opposition described the Government’s handling of the arrangement as unacceptable, arguing that Jamaicans should be able to examine the terms of an agreement with implications for

national security, the country’s international obligations and its reputation. Jackson said the Government was asking Jamaicans to accept the arrangement without providing suﬃcient details about how it would be implemented. He said Parliament should be informed about where the individuals would be housed, the security arrangements governing their stay and who would be responsible for monitoring them. The Opposition is also seeking clarity on Jamaica’s potential legal liabilities, how cases would be handled if receiving countries

refused to accept the individuals, and how security, health and logistical support would be managed. Opposition Spokesperson on Foreign, Regional and Diaspora Aﬀairs Donna ScottMottley said the public deserved full transparency on an agreement of such signiﬁcance. The PNP said it supports safe and orderly migration and values Jamaica’s partnership with the United States. However, it argued that the arrangement should not be implemented without parliamentary scrutiny.

B4 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 21, 2026 | CNWNETWORK.COM

COMMUNITY & THE DIASPORA

Broward County move to sue sheriff over denied access to county facility The vote followed an unsuccessful attempt Monday by County Mayor Mark Bogen and two commissioners to enter the Broward Sheriff’s Office’s Research, Development and Training Center (RDTC), where county officials wanted to inspect a training facility that has drawn questions about its cost. The motion directs the County Attorney’s Office to take “any and all appropriate legal action” necessary to secure access to the facilities, including the RDTC, and enforce the county’s rights against the sheriff’s office. It does not mean a lawsuit has already been filed. During an emergency commission meeting Tuesday, Bogen said the county should be able to inspect property it owns and review how taxpayer money is spent. “The taxpayers of Broward County deserve to know how every dollar is being spent,” he said. Bogen and the commissioners were turned away from the sheriff’s headquarters Monday. A deputy told the group, which included members of the media, that visits had to be scheduled through the sheriff’s office. Tony has maintained that commissioners cannot enter sheriff’s office facilities unannounced to conduct inspections or audits. He has also accused county officials of using the dispute for political purposes. In a social media video posted shortly after Tuesday’s vote, Tony called the commission’s decision foolish and said it could cost taxpayers hundreds of thousands of dollars. “They also don't have the legal purview to this demand that they can walk into a facility unannounced at any point in time in some type of audit capacity or some inspection capacity. They don't have that authority,” Tony said. He characterized the commission’s actions as a political stunt and warned that he viewed the dispute as an attack on the constitutional powers and authority of sheriffs.

Bogen

“An attack on the Sheriff's constitutional powers and authority will prompt a unified response from all 67 sheriffs,” Tony said in the video, which he shared on Facebook. Tony also said he was in contact with attorneys at the Florida Sheriffs Association and was waiting to see what action the county would take next. The fight over access to the training facility is part of a broader dispute that has stalled budget negotiations between the county and the sheriff’s office. County officials have questioned BSO’s spending and the extent of the commission’s authority to examine the agency’s finances. Bogen last week announced plans to direct the county auditor to investigate the sheriff’s spending and request budget documents, warning that the county could pursue legal action if the records were not voluntarily provided. Bogen has argued that greater financial disclosure could resolve the conflict. “Everything stops if they just open their books and say, ‘Here is what we’re spending our money on.’ It’s that simple,” he said. Commissioner Steve Geller has also

questioned how much funding BSO receives from sources beyond the county, including state and federal governments. Geller said the county has allocated approximately $885 million to the sheriff’s office, but commissioners do not have a complete picture of its funding from other sources. “We know how much he gets from the county. We know how much he gets from the cities. I don’t know how much he gets from the state, federal government,” Geller said. Geller also cited differences in annual funding increases between BSO and other county agencies. According to figures he presented, funding for other county agencies increased 2.7% in 2025, compared with an 8.7% increase for BSO. In 2026, funding for other county agencies declined slightly while BSO’s funding rose 3.1%. For 2027, funding for other county agencies increased 3.4%, compared with a 6.4% increase for BSO. The sheriff’s office has argued that it needs additional funding to cover salary increases. Tony has rejected the commission’s position on financial oversight and has said BSO is operating under a “cone of silence” because of what he described as an ongoing criminal investigation involving the county commission by a statewide prosecutor. Broward County Attorney Annika Ashton said Tuesday that she was unaware of any such investigation involving commissioners or county staff. “Mayor, I’m not aware of any criminal investigation on any of the commissioners or any of our staff,” Ashton said during the emergency meeting. Tony previously told reporters Monday that he would not be pressured into granting access while county officials remained under what he described as a “massive criminal investigation.” He also denied allegations

surrounding the dispute and said employees who wished to withdraw their names from a letter connected to the controversy would remain employed. Broader fight over sheriff’s responsibilities The confrontation comes amid a wider effort by county commissioners to reconsider which services should remain under BSO’s control. In September, the commission voted to take Broward County Fire Rescue out of the sheriff’s office and return it to county oversight. Commissioners have also discussed transferring other responsibilities, including airport and seaport security and the county’s regional 911 emergency response system. The dispute over the RDTC has become another flashpoint in the strained relationship between the sheriff’s office and the county government that funds it. Broward’s fiscal 2027 budget year began Oct. 1, with BSO’s funding reported at approximately $875 million. Tuesday’s vote gives the County Attorney’s Office authority to pursue legal remedies if necessary to secure access to county-owned facilities. Whether the dispute proceeds to court will depend on the county’s next steps and the sheriff’s response. A legal challenge would add another front to the increasingly contentious relationship between Tony and the commission, which is also considering changes to the sheriff’s responsibilities and seeking greater scrutiny of public spending.

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CNWNETWORK.COM | NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 21, 2026 –

ENTERTAINMENT

Diddy reportedly injured in prison ﬁght with Jamaican drug lord ‘Dudus’ American music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs reportedly sustained a head injury during a ﬁght with convicted Jamaican drug lord Christopher “Dudus” Coke at a federal prison in New Jersey, according to US entertainment outlet TMZ. TMZ reported Wednesday that the confrontation occurred Friday, October 9, at the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Fort Dix, where both men are serving prison sentences. Citing sources inside the prison, the outlet said the altercation stemmed from anger among inmates over reports about Combs’ alleged privileges behind bars, including access to contraband items. Combs was reportedly taken to an outside medical facility early Saturday, October 10, for treatment of a head injury. TMZ had initially reported that he was transported from the prison following a medical emergency, without identifying the

cause of the injury. The outlet subsequently reported that the ﬁght involved Coke and that both men were placed in the prison’s Special Housing Unit for two weeks as punishment. The circumstances surrounding the alleged confrontation have not been independently veriﬁed. The reported incident follows an NBC News report about Combs’

alleged living conditions at Fort Dix, including claims that he had access to alcohol, cellphones and other prohibited items, as well as assistance from fellow inmates with household tasks. According to TMZ, prison oﬃcials conducted raids and conﬁscated contraband, including cellphones belonging to inmates. The report said the searches

contributed to tensions among prisoners. Combs, the founder of Bad Boy Records and a Grammy-winning artist, is serving a 50-month federal prison sentence after being convicted in July 2025 on two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution. He was acquitted of racketeering conspiracy and sex traﬃcking charges. His projected release date is March 2, 2028, according to recent media reports citing federal prison records. Coke, meanwhile, is serving a 23-year sentence in the United States following his 2012 conviction in a racketeering case. He pleaded guilty to racketeering conspiracy and conspiracy to commit assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering. Coke was the leader of the Shower Posse, an international criminal organization linked to drug and weapons traﬃcking. His extradition from Jamaica to the

United States in 2010 triggered days of violence in sections of Kingston, particularly Tivoli Gardens, where security forces launched an operation to apprehend him. More than 70 civilians were killed during the operation, according to official accounts. Coke was sentenced in October 2011 and subsequently transferred to federal custody to serve his prison term. The Jamaica Gleaner reported in May 2026 that his projected release date had been moved to January 29, 2028, following reductions in his sentence. The latest reports of the alleged altercation have not established whether the incident will affect his release date. Neither the alleged fight nor the reported disciplinary measures have been independently confirmed by prison authorities.

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Jamaican thriller ‘Stew Peas’ secures release in seven Caribbean territories Jamaican psychological thriller Stew Peas will open in seven Caribbean territories on Oct. 29, marking the first time regional cinema chain Caribbean Cinemas has distributed a Jamaican film, according to its producer, iKon Media & Films. The release will include Antigua, Barbados, Guyana, St. Lucia, St. Kitts, Trinidad and Tobago, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, where screenings are planned for St. Thomas and St. Croix. The regional rollout follows the film’s domestic release earlier this year and will precede a limited theatrical release in the United States scheduled to begin in January 2027. Written, directed and produced by Sosiessia Nixon-Kelly, Stew Peas premiered at Carib 5 in Kingston on June 27 before opening nationwide on July 22. The production company said the film was still screening in Jamaican cinemas nearly three months after its local release. “Every new territory confirms what we've known all along: Caribbean audiences are hungry for authentic, homegrown cinema, told in our own voice on the big screen,” Nixon-Kelly said. Nixon-Kelly, who also heads television and film at iKon Media & Films, described the addition of the U.S. Virgin Islands as a milestone for the production and the wider regional film industry. The film follows Detective Tessa Riley as she investigates the murder of her best friend, while a mysterious housekeeper threatens to unravel her marriage. Drawing on Jamaican folklore and West African spiritual traditions, the thriller stars KerryAnn “Chiney-K” Collins, Tarique Barrett, Shernet Swearine and Quera South. Filmed entirely in Kingston, Stew Peas is part of a growing push to bring locally produced Caribbean stories to audiences beyond their home markets. The film is rated 18 and has a runtime of 123 minutes. Tickets for the regional release will be available through Caribbean Cinemas’ website and participating cinema box offices.

B6 – NATIONAL WEEKLY | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 15 – OCTOBER 21, 2026 | CNWNETWORK.COM

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SPORTS

Mexico punish sloppy Girlz to avenge Friday’s defeat Jamaica’s Reggae Girlz surrendered a two-goal ﬁrst-half lead and fell 1-3 to Mexico in the second match of their two-game international friendly series in Querétaro on Tuesday, as the hosts responded emphatically to Friday’s 4-3 defeat. The Girlz, who had edged a seven-goal thriller in the opening encounter, struggled to reproduce that attacking spark and were undone by defensive errors and a spectacular free kick at La Corregidora Stadium. Mexico established control early, capitalized on Jamaica’s mistakes and extended their advantage after the break before Kalyssa van Zanten scored a consolation goal for the visitors.

Defensive mix-up sets Mexico on their way Jamaica made four changes to the starting lineup from Friday’s encounter, introducing Chantel Swaby, Kayla McKenna, Trudi Cater and Solai Washington. However, the reshuffled side endured a difficult opening half, with two defensive lapses leaving them chasing the game. The hosts needed just six minutes to take the lead, although the breakthrough came through an unfortunate Jamaican own goal. A clumsy exchange between goalkeeper Rebeca Spencer and her defenders proved costly when a back pass from Chantel Swaby rolled beneath Spencer’s foot and crossed the goal line. Spencer subsequently kept Jamaica in contention, producing a strong save in the 19th minute to deny Lizbeth Ovalle from point-blank range. Mexico, however, continued to threaten, and Maricarmen Reyes squandered a golden opportunity a minute later when she lifted the ball over the crossbar from close range. Reyes made amends in the 32nd minute, punishing another defensive breakdown to double Mexico’s advantage. She found space between two Jamaican defenders to meet a cross from the left flank, volleying the ball inside the right post. The two-goal deficit reflected Jamaica’s difficulties in containing Mexico’s attack during a disappointing first-half performance.

Ovalle delivers a stunning free kick Mexico tightened its grip on the contest 13 minutes into the second half when Ovalle produced a moment of individual brilliance. The forward struck a superb left-footed free kick from approximately 25 yards in the 58th minute, sending the ball beyond the reach of substitute goalkeeper Liya Brooks to give the hosts a commanding 3-0 lead. Jamaica responded almost immediately, with van Zanten providing

a reminder of the attacking quality that had helped the Girlz win the opening match. In the 60th minute, she collected herself just outside the penalty area and unleashed a well-placed shot that flew high into the far left corner, reducing the deficit to 1-3. The goal offered Jamaica a measure of relief, but the visitors could not mount a comeback to match their exploits from Friday’s encounter.

Captain’s injury adds to Jamaica’s woes The defeat was compounded by an injury to Jamaica’s captain for the night, Allyson Swaby, who was carried off the field during the second half after sustaining an injury to her right foot. Regular captain Khadija Shaw, who played the full 90 minutes in Friday’s victory, was not listed on Tuesday’s match card. For head coach Hubert Busby Jr. and the Girlz, the second encounter provided a contrasting outcome to the series opener. After showcasing their ability to outscore Mexico in a thrilling 4-3 win, Jamaica were left to rue defensive mistakes and a subdued first-half display as the hosts secured a measure of revenge.

Alfred turns pages of inspiration with 50-book donation to Saint Lucian schools Olympic sprint champion Julien Alfred is extending her inﬂuence beyond the track, donating 50 copies of a children’s book inspired by her remarkable journey to help nurture literacy and ambition among Saint Lucian youth. Alfred made the donation last Friday at her alma mater, Ciceron Primary School, presenting the books to Diverse Classroom Books, a local charity committed to providing schools with new, engaging and diverse reading material. The collection, Peanut and the Julien Alfred Visit, tells the story of Alfred’s athletic development, determination and historic rise to become Saint Lucia’s Olympic sprint champion. Written by Saint Lucian author A.L. Dawn French, the book was commissioned by 1st National Bank. The donation is expected to bring Alfred’s achievements into classrooms across the island, giving young readers an opportunity to connect with the journey of a homegrown sporting icon while developing a love for reading. Shnell Donacien, founder of Diverse Classroom Books, welcomed the contribution, describing the support from Alfred and 1st National Bank as an important boost to the organization’s eﬀorts to improve access to children’s literature.